Is pre-eclampsia preventable?

Abstract

Pre-eclampsia is characterised by reduced utero-placental blood flow which in turn results from vascular damage occurring early in pregnancy. Endothelial damage and reduced prostacyclin and nitric oxide synthesis will initiate excessive platelet aggregation, fibrin deposition and vascular occlusion. Prevention of pre-eclampsia is dependent on affecting this process. Antiplatelet therapy is being assessed as a prophylaxis. Screening tests using increased platelet turnover as their basis are also being assessed.